By Jon Lafayette ( Broadcasting & Cable ) published February 16, 2024
Gloves with ShotTracker sensors to debut tonight on Fubo Sports as MMA producer eyes FAST app
Former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman is looking to tackle the TV business.
Merriman’s mixed martial arts outfit, Lights Out Xtreme Fighting, on Friday will debut a new data and analytics package designed to make the sport more interesting for viewers and more attractive to sponsors.
And in a couple of months, Merriman said he plans to launch Lights Out Sports, a free, ad-supported TV (FAST) streaming app with 20 or so channels.
“Just like I was a game changer on the field, I want to be a game changer in what I’m doing now,†Merriman told Broadcasting+Cable.
Merriman played for the San Diego Chargers from 2005 through 2010, then spent two seasons with the Buffalo Bills before retiring in 2012. After his football career ended, Merriman got into the TV business, working for the NFL, Fox Sports and ESPN. He started Lights Out Xtreme Fighting in 2019.
Merriman got in touch with DD Sports, the company that puts sensors in basketballs to create the realtime ShotTracker analytics used by coaches and broadcasters.
Together they developed a Tech glove with a ShotTracker sensor in the wrist that will measure the power and frequency of punches. A camera system will track where the fighters are in the ring.
